Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences over the demise of the Emir of Kuwait
The Government of India has declared State mourning across the country on Sunday (December 17, 2023) as a mark of respect for departed Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences.
 
The Emir, who ruled the oil-rich country for three years, passed away on Saturday (December 16, 2023).
 
"Deeply saddened to learn about the unfortunate demise of His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. We convey our deepest condolences to the Royal family, the leadership and the people of Kuwait," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on social media platform X. 
 
Announcing one day’s state mourning throughout India as a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, the Ministry of Home Affairs said the National Flag will be flown at half-mast throughout the country on all buildings where it is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment.
 
Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs Hardeep S Puri is visiting Kuwait as Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on 17 December to pay condolences on behalf of the Government and the people of India. He will deliver personal letters of condolences from the President and Prime Minister of India to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the new Amir, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Sunday (December 17, 2023).
 
The MEA that in the demise of His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Kuwait has lost a visionary leader who took the country towards progress and prosperity.
 
India and Kuwait maintained close and friendly relations under the leadership of the late Amir. He was steadfast in guiding and strengthening bilateral engagements for the mutual benefit of the people of the two countries. The large Indian expatriate community in Kuwait will miss his presence and compassionate care, the MEA noted.

"India stands united in mourning with the leadership and the people of Kuwait," the MEA added.